August Resources from Sedgwick - OABA Member Service Partner

OABA is pleased to partner with Sedgwick to offer members quality service and stability through the complex workers’ compensation environment. Check out this update from Sedgwick regarding the BWC Adjusting Group Rating Discounts for Private Employers and True-up Process.

BWC Adjusts Group Rating Discounts for Private Employers

The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) has announced a small change to Group Rating discounts for private employers beginning with the July 1, 2027 policy year. Under BWC's updated methodology, the maximum Group Rating discount will decrease from 53% to 50%, with other discount levels adjusted as well.

While the discount percentages are changing slightly, Group Rating and Group Retrospective Rating programs continue to be valuable tools for helping employers reduce their workers' compensation costs.

These programs remain some of the most effective ways to manage premiums and control long-term workers' compensation expenses. Our partner, Sedgwick is proud to collaborate with our participating members to help get the most from their workers' compensation programs by providing:

• Guidance and advocacy through Ohio's workers' compensation system
• Early claim reviews and consultation before certification
• Return-to-work strategies and vocational support for complex claims
• Representation at WC hearings at the various Industrial Commission locations throughout Ohio
• Ongoing program consultation in support of ongoing account compliance and timely premium payments

With the right support and a proactive approach to claims management, employers can reduce costs, improve claim outcomes, and protect their workers' compensation experience while having “peace of mind”.

Even with this change, employers that focus on workplace safety and effective claims management can still realize meaningful savings through these programs.

If you have any questions or would like Sedgwick to review your policy for our Group discount programs, please our Sedgwick program manager, David Deyo at David.deyo@sedgwick.com.

True-up Process

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) provides workers’ compensation coverage based on estimated payroll. Therefore, at the end of the policy year, BWC asks employers to report their actual payroll for the prior policy year and pay any shortage (or receive a refund for any overage) in premium. This process is called a true-up. If the true-up is not completed timely, the following may occur:

• Employer will not be eligible for prior year rebates and incentives
• Employer will be removed from current year programs
• Employer will become ineligible for programs the following year and will continue to remain ineligible for all future years until all past true-ups are completed.

How to report payroll and complete the true-up
Although employers may contact BWC at (800) OHIO-BWC (800.644.6292) and complete their true-up report over the phone, BWC anticipates high call volumes and long wait times. They strongly encourage employers to complete their true-up report online through their BWC e-account at www.bwc.ohio.gov. If you do not have an e-account, simply select the Create E-Account Link to begin. You will need your BWC policy number and/or Federal Tax Identification Number. 

Deadline
Private employers - True-up report must be completed and payment received no later than August 31, 2026.

Please note: There is no longer a grace period. True-up and payment (if owed) must be POSTED by the deadline date.

If you have any questions, contact our Sedgwick program manager, David Deyo email david.deyo@sedgwick.com.

Learn more about Sedgwick!

Did you know that many alternative discounts are available to help reduce your annual Ohio workers’ compensation costs? Through the OABA workers’ compensation program, your organization can significantly reduce your workers’ compensation costs through a variety of alternative rating programs. Our program, administered by Sedgwick, offers you quality service and stability through the complex workers’ compensation environment.

For over 50 years, Sedgwick has been helping employers navigate Ohio’s workers’ compensation system, providing services to help them control claim-related costs and reduce premiums. Our team includes experienced colleagues from CompManagement and CareWorks Comp.

Learn more about how Sedgwick can help your company save significantly on your workers’ compensation premium by clicking here.